Organized sessions

Open Call

Organized session proposals are invited for SWARM2024 in September. An organized session proposal should include the title, aim and scope of the session, and the names, e-mail addresses, affiliations and short bios of the organizer(s). The proposal can include additional information such as a list of potential contributors. At least three papers/abstracts should be arranged in an organized session.  The paper/presentation format will be the same as regular sessions.  If you have ideas for organized sessions, please contact the SWARM Secretariat.

Accepted Sessions

OS1: Motion Analysis and Control of Advanced Robotic Systems

Organizer: Fumihiko Asano (Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)

  This organized session invites a wide range of the latest research results on advanced robotic and mechanical systems that generate skillful movements and interesting nonlinear phenomena, and applied methods that actively utilize their characteristics. Through lively discussions by participants, we aim to acquire new knowledge about the mechanical principles inherent in non-trivial and complex movements created by mechanical systems and living things, and to open up new research fields.

OS2: Modular Robot System

Organizer: Ryusuke Fujisawa (The University of Kitakyushu)

  Modular robotics is an innovative paradigm that involves systems of autonomous units or modules with varying geometric and functional characteristics. These modular units are designed to operate independently or synergistically, facilitating the synthesis of robotic systems with enhanced complex capabilities through their integration. Modular robotics possess core attributes of flexibility, scalability, and reconfigurability, which represent a significant advancement in robotics technology. The strategic combination of these modules allows for the customization of robotic systems to suit a wide range of applications. Additional modules can be incorporated to progressively expand their functional scope. In addition, modular robots can be optimised for different environments and applications by changing their configuration.

  They are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks, such as exploring confined or irregular terrain, manoeuvring in collapsed infrastructures, overcoming obstacles in disaster recovery scenarios, and adapting to specific manufacturing processes. However, the development of modular robotics presents several challenges. These include ensuring reliable intermodular connections, achieving autonomy in reconfiguration processes, and efficiently managing energy resources. Additionally, automating modular assembly into optimal configurations remains an unresolved issue. Despite the obstacles, modular robotics is anticipated with eagerness as it overcomes challenges and incorporates increasingly sophisticated functionalities.

OS3: Advances in Large-Scale Swarm Intelligence

Organizer: Naoki Hayashi (Osaka University)

  This organized session explores cutting-edge research topics in swarm robotic systems. We invite contributions that delve into the fundamental theories, practical applications, and innovative approaches to designing and optimizing networked robotic systems. This organized session aims to foster discussions on the latest advancements, identify key challenges, and outline potential solutions to enable efficient and robust large-scale swarm intelligence.

OS4: Bridging Homogeneity and Heterogeneity: Pioneering the Science of Swarms

Organizers: Yuichiro Sueoka (Osaka University) and Takeshi Kano (Future University Hakodate)

  This organized session explores the spectrum of swarm behaviors, from homogeneous to heterogeneous, encompassing everything from biological cells to artificial swarm robotics. By modeling the collective movement of biological entities, in addition to analyzing the actions of cells, we aim to decipher the mechanisms behind collective behaviors. This approach allows us to understand the underlying principles from cell swarms to animal herds, providing insights into the swarm intelligence. The session will also feature applications in robotics, advancing our understanding of swarm intelligence and its potential.

OS5: Systems Ethology: Toward Elucidating the Design Principles of Animal Behavior

Organizers: Yusuke Notomi (The University of Tokyo), Hayato M Yamanouchi (Nagoya University), Ryoya Tanaka (Nagoya University) and Shumpei Hisamoto (Meiji University)

  The exploration of biology plays a crucial role in elucidating the behavioral mechanisms of individual agents and their collective behavior as swarms, owing to the complex and diverse nature of animal behavior. In particular, recent remarkable advances in information processing technology have helped to elucidate their complex behavioral patterns. Furthermore, these technological innovations also enable detailed investigations into non-model species where established research tools are lacking, thereby contributing to a broader understanding of various biological phenomena.

  Currently, methods for animal behavior analysis are highly diversified, necessitating opportunities for integrated discussions where specialists with cutting-edge knowledge can share their techniques. We therefore propose a framework called "Systems Ethology" to elucidate the design principles of animal behavior. With the overarching goal of understanding animal behavior as a system, we aim to facilitate the exchange of information regarding various approaches to elucidating the mechanisms underlying each behavior. Such cross-disciplinary interactions among researchers can assist in performing more efficient and meaningful research.

  In this session, we aim to gather biological insights from various disciplines such as ecology, ethology, and neuroscience. Additionally, proposals for diverse behavioral analysis approaches, incorporating insights from information science and engineering, are also encouraged.